Observe
Goal for the Week: Observe, Observe, Observe!
“A soundly objective method is based on observation, the observation of facts, which is why the Montessori Method is entirely different from all the other methods, which came from certain people who arrived at certain theories.”
– Maria Montessori
Observation is one of the most radical and defining features of the Montessori Method. Unlike other pedagogies that were built on theories imposed on children, Montessori insisted that we begin with what we see in the child. The teacher’s role is to observe first, then respond.
But here’s the challenge: in the busyness of our day, observation often slips away. We make time for lessons, lesson planning, parent communication, and team meetings—but are we consistently making time to observe?
This week, let’s commit as a community: set aside daily time for observation.
Why Observation Matters
Observation isn’t just a professional habit—it’s the foundation of our ability to guide children effectively. It allows us to:
See where a child is in their development.
Notice patterns in the classroom.
Identify obstacles to independence.
Understand how the environment is serving (or not serving) the child.
Observation is what makes the Montessori guide responsive rather than prescriptive. It is the lens through which transformation becomes visible.
Tips for Effective Observation
To keep observation meaningful, vary your approach. A single snapshot will always be incomplete.
1️⃣ Vary the Time
Don’t only observe during the morning work cycle. Step back during transitions, lunch, or the end of the day. Each time of day reveals different dynamics.
2️⃣ Vary the Place
Change your perspective. Sit at a child-sized table, stand at the back, or move to the side. Different vantage points highlight different details.
3️⃣ Vary the Format
Mix up how you capture what you see. For example:
Anecdotal notes ✍️
Classroom maps 🗺️
Diagrams or sketches ✏️
Tallies ✔️
Traffic flow charts 🔄
4️⃣ Vary the Purpose
Sometimes, we observe without an agenda, simply to notice. Other times, focus on a purpose, such as:
Work choices and student preferences
Classmate pairings and collaboration
Classroom flow and energy
Independence and problem-solving
Questions being asked
Frustrations or obstacles
From Observation to Action
Observation is only powerful if we act on it.
🌱 Apply your observations. Share with your teaching team and, when appropriate, with the students themselves. Work together to adjust the environment or routines so the whole community can thrive.
📝 Record your observations. Develop a consistent method for documentation. Over time, patterns will emerge—showing you not only what the children need but how you as a teacher have responded in the past.
A Collective Challenge
This week, let’s hold each other accountable: observe every day. Vary your approach, write down what you see, and share with your team.
Observation is the teacher’s most powerful tool. It grounds us in reality, keeps us humble, and allows us to truly serve the child.
👀 What new insights might emerge if we each committed to observing with fresh eyes this week?
